Geronimo: Apache Freedom Fighter

by Spring Hermann

Examines the life of the Apache chief Geronimo, who led one of the last Indian uprisings.

Library Binding

First published March 1, 1997

About the author

My first interest in life was the theatre. I earned a Bachelor of Arts from Indiana University in Theatre and Literature, and a Master of Arts from Central Connecticut State University in Literature. I worked as a costumer and prop mistress at theatres in St. Louis, Missouri; Interlaken, Michigan; Chatauqua, New York; Mankato, Minnesota; and others.

After I had my two daughters, I wanted a more "stay at home" activity - and decided to try writing. My first novel was for adults and came out in 1983. I've been writing ever since. Besides two nonfiction subscription works, all other books have been for young readers. I also worked for years as a public relations writer for several great nonprofit companies.

Now I am also trying to "get back to where I started," and work in youth theatre - but as a playwright. Since my daughters are grown and my husband retired, I am free to pursue that dream.

Reviews

[Saud · Rating 4 out of 5]

Geronimo by Spring Herman is a story about an Apache Freedom Fighter. He led wars against the Mexicans and the Americans for his people’s rights. He had lost his wife, mother and children by Mexicans. His bravery and need for revenge made his people choose him as their leader against the Mexicans and settlers. Geronimo was known for his escapes from reservations to lead the attacks on the United States troops. Unfortunately, Geronimo died of pneumonia in the year 1909.

Before reading this book, I wanted to know the following; who and what he was? What made him important? Where did He come from? The reader can see that this book is a biography because it talks about a man and his life. Geronimo helped change the Apache people’s lives because he fought against people who wanted to settle in Apache land. He was a leader because the Apache warriors chose him to lead them in times of war. Geronimo was a warrior because he never gave up and sought revenge for his people’s massacre. He also was a freedom fighter because he never ceded his territory. Finally Geronimo did not fear war or raiding Mexican settlements. The reader can see that Geronimo as hero because he fought the Mexicans after they killed his people.
What makes is this Biography interesting is that Geronimo was a brave leader who was not afraid to fight for Apache rights. He fought the Mexicans and the Americans too. Geronimo treated the Apache people as family because he fought not just to revenge his families’ death but to revenge all the Apaches who died at the hands of the Mexican militia, he also fought so that no other man would have to experience what he had. I would recommend this book to people how have had their homes, lands, and rights taken away from them. They can learn from Geronimo that one person can stand up against much stronger armies. Hopefully, he can inspire them to better their lives by trying to do something to make a change. For them this story also represents hope for a better future.

[Tanja · Rating 3 out of 5]

Though it seemed a bit jumbled at times, this book is overall pretty informative. I've always enjoyed reading biographies, especially when they are about an interesting historic person.